Herb & supplement monograph

Lemon Eucalyptus Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Medically reviewed by ·Updated June 2026
What is this page for?

First and foremost: how Lemon Eucalyptus interacts with medications. The heart of this page is the interaction list — every drug Lemon Eucalyptus is known to interact with, and how serious each one is.

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Lemon Eucalyptus is, what people use it for and how strong the evidence is, its safety and side effects, and answers to the questions we’re asked most — written and reviewed by the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases, not medical advice, and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

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Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Lemon Eucalyptus

0 medications have a known interaction with Lemon Eucalyptus, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

We don’t currently list any known drug interactions for Lemon Eucalyptus. This doesn’t guarantee none exist — always confirm with your pharmacist before combining supplements with your medications.

Read The List Like a Pharmacist

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

  • Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
  • Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
  • Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
  • No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

  • Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
  • Probable. Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
  • Possible. Interaction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
  • Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

Where This Data Comes From

  • Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
  • Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Lemon Eucalyptus combination — clinical detail, likelihood, evidence level, and citations.
  • Content is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists — see our data sources and editorial standards.
Monograph

Lemon Eucalyptus: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed June 2026 ·
The bottom line

Lemon eucalyptus is a tree whose leaves and oil are best known as a natural-source insect repellent. A refined version of its oil (often called OLE or PMD) has real evidence for repelling mosquitoes, but the raw essential oil should not be confused with this and can irritate skin. Talk with a pharmacist or doctor before using it, especially on children or during pregnancy.

Scientific name
Corymbia citriodora
Family
Myrtaceae
Part used
Leaves and essential oil
Common forms
Essential oil, insect repellent sprays and lotions, aromatherapy oil
People commonly use it for
  • Insect repellent
  • Sore muscles and joint discomfort
  • Aromatherapy
  • Antimicrobial uses
  • Soothing minor skin irritation

Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.

Safety at a glance
OverallUse caution

Topical use is generally well tolerated for many people, but undiluted oil can irritate skin and it should never be swallowed.

PregnancyInsufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

Read the full pregnancy detail
BreastfeedingInsufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

Read the full breastfeeding detail

Pregnancy & breastfeeding ratings are from Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center). Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.

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Overview

Lemon eucalyptus comes from a tall tree native to Australia and now grown in many warm parts of the world. Its leaves give off a strong, lemony, fresh scent, which is why it has the name lemon eucalyptus.

The leaves are steam-distilled to make an essential oil. There are two products people often confuse. One is the raw lemon eucalyptus essential oil, used mostly in aromatherapy and skin products. The other is a refined extract, often called oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or its active ingredient PMD, which is processed specifically to repel insects.

Most popular use centers on keeping mosquitoes and other biting insects away. People also use the scented oil in massage products and for its pleasant aroma.

How it works

The leaves and oil are rich in aromatic compounds. The refined repellent ingredient PMD (para-menthane-3,8-diol) is thought to mask the human scents that attract mosquitoes, making it harder for them to find you.

The raw essential oil also contains compounds like citronellal and other fragrant molecules that give it the lemony smell. In laboratory tests, these compounds can damage the cell walls of some microbes, which is why the oil is studied for antimicrobial effects.

It is important to know that much of this is based on lab and animal research. Effects seen in a test tube do not always carry over to real-world results in people.

Effectiveness

Does Lemon Eucalyptus work?

Here’s what the research actually shows for each use — graded by Natural Medicines and reviewed by .

Evidence overview · 6 uses evaluated
1 Likely effective 5 Insufficient evidence
How to read these evidence grades

Natural Medicines’ 7-point scale. We show each rating’s label word-for-word.

1EffectiveStrong, consistent evidence it works.
2Likely EffectiveGood evidence, though not yet conclusive.
3Possibly EffectiveSome evidence suggests a benefit.
4Possibly IneffectiveSome evidence it may not help.
5Likely IneffectiveFairly strong evidence it doesn’t help.
6IneffectiveStrong evidence it doesn’t work.
7Insufficient Reliable Evidence to RateToo little research to say either way.
Likely Effective Mosquito repellent
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Topical lemon eucalyptus oil provides similar mosquito repellent effects to DEET.

Also studied for 5 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Joint pain
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral lemon eucalyptus for joint pain, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of lemon eucalyptus for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Onychomycosis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral lemon eucalyptus for onychomycosis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of lemon eucalyptus for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Osteoarthritis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral lemon eucalyptus for osteoarthritis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of lemon eucalyptus for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Postoperative pain
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if aromatherapy with lemon eucalyptus is beneficial in patients with postoperative pain.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Tick repellent
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if topical lemon eucalyptus is beneficial as a tick repellent.

Source & disclaimer. Effectiveness ratings and evidence summaries are provided by Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) and shown as licensed. Where Natural Medicines hasn’t rated a use, HelloPharmacist’s pharmacists may add their own reviewed rating and evidence (each such entry is labeled). This is educational information, not medical advice — talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing a supplement.

Safety & precautions

For most adults, properly formulated repellent products are well tolerated when used as directed. However, the concentrated essential oil can cause skin irritation, especially if it is not diluted.

Never swallow lemon eucalyptus oil. Swallowing eucalyptus-type oils can cause serious poisoning, including drowsiness, seizures, and breathing problems.

Keep these products away from the eyes and out of the reach of children. Many repellent products advise against using OLE/PMD on children under 3 years old, so always read the label.

Pregnancy: Information is limited. Registered repellent products are sometimes considered acceptable, but you should check with your doctor before using essential oils while pregnant. Breastfeeding: Safety data is lacking, so use cautiously and avoid applying it near the chest where a baby may contact it.

People with asthma, sensitive skin, or a history of allergies should be especially careful.

Side effects

The most common side effects are skin reactions such as redness, itching, stinging, or rash, especially with the undiluted oil. Some people may have an allergic reaction.

Getting the oil in the eyes can cause burning and irritation. Breathing in strong vapors may bother people with asthma.

Swallowing the oil is dangerous and can cause serious symptoms. If a child swallows it, seek emergency help right away or call poison control.

Dosing

There is no established standard dose for lemon eucalyptus as a supplement, and it is not meant to be taken by mouth. For insect repellent products, follow the directions on the label exactly, including how often to reapply and any age limits.

If you use the essential oil on your skin, it should be diluted in a carrier oil first, and it is wise to do a small patch test. When in doubt, ask a pharmacist or doctor for guidance, and choose products that clearly state their ingredients and concentration.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Lemon Eucalyptus & Pregnancy

Insufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

Lemon Eucalyptus & Breastfeeding

Insufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 2 sources that drive our Lemon Eucalyptus monograph — publicly available pages from reputable medical and government organizations. Every link was verified to work before publishing.

  1. Eucalyptus oil poisoning — MedlinePlus Source
  2. Preventing Mosquito Bites — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Source
Keep reading

This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or combining supplements and medications.

Brand directory

Brands that make products with Lemon Eucalyptus

2 brands in our database make a supplement containing Lemon Eucalyptus.

Product directory

Supplement products with Lemon Eucalyptus

2 products in our database contain Lemon Eucalyptus. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Lemon Eucalyptus: Common Questions

What is Lemon Eucalyptus used for, and does it work?
People use Lemon Eucalyptus for many reasons, but the evidence varies by use. According to the Natural Medicines database, there is at least some clinical evidence supporting Lemon Eucalyptus for Mosquito repellent. For most other uses it has been studied for, the evidence is currently insufficient to rate. See the graded list on this page, and always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Does Lemon Eucalyptus interact with prescription medications?
We do not currently list any known drug interactions for Lemon Eucalyptus. This does not guarantee that none exist, so always confirm with your pharmacist before combining it with your medications.
How are Lemon Eucalyptus interactions rated?
Each interaction is graded major, moderate, or minor based on how clinically significant it is and the strength of the evidence behind it. Major interactions are the most serious and are best avoided, or used only under close professional supervision.
Is it safe to take Lemon Eucalyptus with my medications?
It depends on the specific medication. Some combinations are fine, while others call for monitoring, timing changes, or should be avoided. Check your exact drug above and confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing anything.
Where does this Lemon Eucalyptus interaction information come from?
Our interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database — an evidence-graded reference for vitamins, herbs, and supplements — and is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists, who may add clinical context.
Is Lemon Eucalyptus the same as the oil that repels mosquitoes?
Not exactly. The mosquito-repelling product is a refined version called oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE) or PMD. Plain Lemon Eucalyptus essential oil sold for aromatherapy does not repel insects as reliably.
Can I take Lemon Eucalyptus oil by mouth?
No. Eucalyptus-type oils can be toxic if swallowed and may cause serious symptoms like seizures and breathing trouble. It is meant for topical or aromatic use only.
Is it safe to use on children?
Many repellent products advise against using OLE or PMD on children under 3 years old. Always read the label and check with a pediatrician or pharmacist before use.
Can I use it during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Safety data is limited. Some registered repellent products may be acceptable, but you should talk with your doctor first and avoid applying it near the chest if you are breastfeeding.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Keep exploring

Products that contain Lemon Eucalyptus

A rotating sample of real supplements in our database that list Lemon Eucalyptus — open any to see its full ingredients and every drug interaction we check.

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